NSF-funded summer research opportunity in São José dos Campos, Brazil, hosted by Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA)
Highlights
- 10-week summer research experience at ITA
- Collaborative projects in passive and active thermal management
- Cultural exchange and site visits to Embraer and Eve Air Mobility
- Provided housing and a competitive stipend
- Open to U.S. undergraduate and graduate students
About the Program
This International Research Experience for Students (IRES) program enables a unique collaboration between Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) and Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA). Over three years, selected students will engage in joint research tackling challenges in electrified aircraft through advanced thermal management strategies.
The program focuses on training the next generation of engineers in high-impact topics like phase-change materials and transcritical CO₂ systems, combining numerical and experimental approaches in an international setting.
Research Areas
Thrust 1: Passive Thermal Management
- Focus on solid-to-liquid phase-change materials (PCMs)
- Applications in motors and electronics for electric aircraft
- Flow visualization experiments and GPU-accelerated modeling
Thrust 2: Active Cooling
- Study of transcritical CO₂ (tCO₂) systems for heat removal
- Includes compact refrigeration systems and heat exchanger design
- Hands-on experience with high-fidelity simulations and experimental rigs
Application Info
Eligibility
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Undergraduate or graduate student in a STEM field
- Available for 10 weeks between May and August
- Able to commit 10-20 hours/week during spring for pre-departure prep
Application Platform: Apply via the NSF ETAP system.
Deadline: Nov. 15, 2025
Program Timeline
Fall
- Recruitment and selection
- Initial cohort introductions
- Portuguese language club and pre-departure meetings
Spring
- Research planning and virtual mentor meetings
- Travel and housing logistics
Summer
- 10-week onsite research at ITA
- Weekly check-ins with faculty and mentors
- Site visits and cultural activities
Fall (Post-Return)
- Data analysis
- Conference preparation
- Final publications and presentations
Partners
ITA is the premier aerospace-focused engineering institution of Brazil, operating under the Brazilian Air Force as part of the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology (DCTA) in São José dos Campos. As a leading center for education and applied research, ITA plays a critical role in advancing the scientific and technological capabilities of Brazil’s aerospace, defense and energy sectors.
The university has approximately 2,300 students and maintains a diverse academic community composed of civilian and military faculty, researchers and students. Its facilities are located within the DCTA campus, alongside several other key aerospace R&D entities, including the research divisions of Embraer and the Brazilian Space Agency.
ITA’s mission centers on leveraging engineering and scientific innovation to promote Brazil’s national technological development. This includes research in thermal sciences, propulsion systems, energy systems, and advanced manufacturing. The institution is closely integrated with Brazil’s industrial ecosystem, engaging in collaborative research with leading companies such as Embraer and Eve Air Mobility.
Student Experience
- Conduct research in cutting-edge labs at ITA
- Gain experience in international collaboration
- Network with Brazilian graduate students and faculty
- Visit leading aerospace companies
- Develop language, cultural and professional skills
Professional Development
- Virtual collaboration with Brazilian mentors before departure
- Team-building and cross-cultural problem solving
- Conference attendance and publication support
- Attendance at the 2026 International Heat Transfer Conference in Rio
Disclaimer
This website is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 2505458. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.